IOV Periodic Table Guide

Rhenium 75 186.207

LOCATION: Group 8, Period 6 5596 1.5
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 186.207
Re3180

2[X1e.0] 4f145d-156,s22,4,6,7

COORDINATION NUMBER: 4, 6, 7, 8, 9 (coordination numbers 4, 7, 8 and 9
are observed less frequently)

CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: ReO41-

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Stable in HCl, HNO3, H2SO4, HF, and H3PO4. Stable
with most metals and inorganic anions in acidic media. Mixing higher levels

of ReO41- with Ag+, Hg22+, K+, NH4+, Cs+, Rb+, or Tl+ will give the corresponding
salt (solubilities are 1–12 g/L).

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 1–5% HNO3/LDPE
container.

Re CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (soluble in

HNO3); Oxides/Ores (fuse in Pt0 with Na2CO3). Organic Matrix (all modes of acid
attack invite the danger of loss of some volatile perrhenic acid. The use of a

reflux condenser should be considered when a wet acid digestion is used such

as nitric/perchloric or sulfuric/peroxide digestions. The preferred approach

is to ash the sample in Pt0 mixed with Na2CO3 starting the ash at 450°C and
then increasing the temperature, if necessary, to 900°C to effect a fusion of

accompanying alumino-silicates, etc.).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION:

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
1 ion Fe, Os, Mo, Ta
ICP-OES 221.426 nm 0.006/.0006 μg/mL 1 ion Ru, Co, Ca
M+ 171Yb16O, 187Os
ICP-OES 227.525 nm 0.006/.0006 μg/mL n/a

ICP-MS 187 amu 2 ppt

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 51

Osmium 76 190.2

LOCATION: Group 8, Period 6 5012 1.5
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 190.2
Os3027

[2X2e.6]4 f145d266,s32,4,6,8

COORDINATION NUMBER: 4, 5, 6, 8 (coordination numbers are 4, 5 and 8 are observed less frequently)

CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: OsCl62-

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Stable in HCl. Stable with most metals and
inorganic anions as the [OsCl6]2- in dilute HCl media. DO NOT EXPOSE TO NITRIC
ACID – FORMATION OF THE VERY VOLATILE AND TOXIC OsO4 WILL RESULT. Any
oxidizing condition must be avoided.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels are NOT stable in 1% HNO3/LDPE container. The
stability of HCl solutions at ppb levels has not been determined by our
laboratory. 1–10,000 ppm solutions are presumed chemically stable for years
in 10% HCl/LDPE container, stability studies have not been performed.

Os CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Oxides (fuse with KOH/
KNO3 in a Ag0 crucible and dissolve in water being sure to avoid addition of
any acid); Ores (see Oxides); Organics (the OsO4 is volatile and acidic oxidizing
preparations should be used with caution. The preferred approach is the KOH/
KNO3 fusion and dissolution of the fuseate in water. Our laboratory has used
APDC to help stabilize Os solutions, but more work is required to validate
its effectiveness).

NOTE: The presence of the OsO4 will give false high results due to its enhanced
nebulization efficiency (volatility). Only dilutions in HCl should be made. The use
of nitric acid should be strictly avoided. Preparations from caustic nitrate fusions
should be diluted in water.

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION:

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
ICP-OES 225.585 nm 0.0004 μg/mL 1 ion
ICP-MS 192 amu 1 ppt M+ Fe, Ta, Ge, Ir, Cr
n/a
176Yb16O, 176Lu16O,
176Hf16O, 192Pt

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 52

Iridium 77 192.22

LOCATION: Group 9, Period 6 4428 1.6
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 192.22
COORDINATION NUMBER: 6 Ir2443
CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: IrCl6-2
2[X2e.4]4 f145d76s22,3,4,6

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Soluble in HCl, HNO3, H2SO4, and HF aqueous
matrices. May cause AgCl precipitation when mixed with Ag+. Stable with all

other metals.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 10% HCl/LDPE container.

Ir CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (elevated

temperature with aqua regia or HCl/Cl2 {gas} ); Ores (HF/H2SO4 digestion
followed by aqua regia digestion); Platinum scrap (aqua regia digestion).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION: (italic text indicates severe at ~ concs.)

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
1 ion Cu, Nb, Hf
ICP-OES 224.268 nm 0.03 μg/mL 1 ion Ta, Yb, Au, V
1 atom Fe
ICP-OES 212.681 nm 0.03 μg/mL M+ 175Lu16O
n/a
ICP-OES 205.222 nm 0.06 μg/mL

ICP-MS 191 amu 2 ppt

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 53

Platinum 78 195.08

LOCATION: Group 10, Period 6 3827 1.4
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 195.08
COORDINATION NUMBER: 6 Pt1772
CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Pt(Cl)62-
2[X2e.6]4 f145d266,s32,4,6,8

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Stable in HCl and HNO3, as the chloride complex.
Avoid basic media. Stable with most metals and inorganic anions in acidic

media.

STABILITY: 2–10 ppb Pt is stable for 2 months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
100 ppb is stable for 5 months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container. 1–10,000 ppm
solutions chemically stable for years in 10 % HCl/LDPE container.

Pt CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (aqua regia);
Oxides (soluble in HCl); Ores (dissolve in HCl/HNO3).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION: (italic text indicates severe at ~ concs.)

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
1 ion W, As, Ir, Cd
ICP-OES 214.423 nm 0.03/.003 μg/mL 1 ion Co, Hf
M+ 179Hf16O
ICP-OES 203.646 nm 0.06/.006 μg/mL n/a

ICP-MS 195 amu 5 ppt

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 54

Gold 79 196.967

LOCATION: Group 11, Period 6 2857 1.4
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 196.9665
COORDINATION NUMBER: 6 Au1064.58
CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Au(Cl)63-
[Xe]4f145d106s 1,3
18.9

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Stable in HCl, and HNO3, as the chloride complex.
Avoid basic media. Stable with most metals and inorganic anions in acidic

media.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels. 2-10 ppb Au is stable for ≤ 1 day maximum in

1% HNO3/LDPE container. 100 ppb is stable for ≤ 2 days maximum in 1% HNO3/
LDPE container. 1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in

10% HCl/LDPE container.

Au CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (aqua regia);
Oxides (soluble in HCl); Ores (dissolve in HCl/HNO3).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION: (italic text indicates severe at ~ concs.)

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
ICP-OES 242.795 nm 0.02/.003 μg/mL 1 atom
Mn, Os, Th, Ta, Pt
ICP-OES 267.595 nm 0.03/.003 μg/mL 1 atom Co, F

ICP-OES 208.209 nm 0.04/.01 μg/mL 1 ion Nb, Ta, U, Cr, Th,
n/a M+ Rh, Ru
ICP-MS 197 amu 5 ppt
Ir, Re

181Ta16O

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 55

Mercury 80 200.59

LOCATION: Group 12, Period 6 357 1.5
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 200.59
COORDINATION NUMBER: 4 Hg-38.72
CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Hg(OH)(aq)1+
[Xe]4f145d66s2 1,2
13.5

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Stable in HNO3. Avoid basic media forming
insoluble carbonate. The sulfide, basic carbonate, oxalate, phosphate,

arsenite, arsenate, and iodide are insoluble in water.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels - stable in 10% HNO3 packaged in borosilicate
glass; NOT stable in 1% HNO3/LDPE container. 1–100 ppm levels stable in
7% HNO3 packaged in borosilicate glass. 1000–10,000 ppm solutions are
chemically stable for years in 5-10% HNO3/LDPE container.

Hg CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (soluble in

HNO3); HgO (soluble in HNO3); Ores and Organic based (our documentation
has more references to the preparation of Hg containing samples than

any other element – because these preparations are prone to error, we

recommend you contact our technical staff at [email protected]

or (800) 669-6799 and we’ll provide you with the necessary data for your

specific sample type).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION: (italic text indicates severe at ~ concs.)

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
ICP-OES 184.950 nm 0.03/.005 μg/mL 1 atom
ICP-OES 194.227 nm 0.03/.005 μg/mL 1 V
ICP-OES 253.652 nm 0.1 /.03 μg/mL 1 ion Ta, Co, Th ,Rh ,
atom Fe, U
ICP-MS 202 amu 9 ppt n/a 186W16O
M+

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 56

Thallium 81 204.383

LOCATION: Group 13, Period 6 1473 1.4
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 204.383
COORDINATION NUMBER: 6 Tl304
CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Tl(H2O)61+
1[X1.e8]54 f145d106s26p1,3

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Soluble in HCl, HNO3, and H2SO4. Stable with
most metals and inorganic anions. The sulfite, thiocyanate, and oxalate are

moderately soluble; the phosphate and arsenite are slightly soluble and the

sulfide is insoluble.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 2-5% HNO3/LDPE
container.

Tl CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (is best dissolved

in HNO3 which forms chiefly the Tl1+ ion); Oxide (the thallous oxide is readily
soluble in water. The thallic oxide requires high levels of acid); Ores (carbonate

fusion in Pt0 followed by HCl dissolution); Organic Matrices (sulfuric/peroxide

digestion or dry ash and dissolution in HCl).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION:

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
1 ion V, Ti
ICP-OES 190.864 nm 0.04/.004 μg/mL 1 atom Ta, V, Fe, Cr
1 atom Th, Ce, Zr
ICP-OES 276.787 nm 0.1/.01 μg/mL M+ 189Os16O
n/a
ICP-OES 351.924 nm 0.2/.02 μg/mL

ICP-MS 205 amu 2 ppt

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 57

Lead 82 207.2

LOCATION: Group 14, Period 6 1750 1.6
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 207.2
COORDINATION NUMBER: 6 Pb327.6
CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Pb(H2O)6+2
[1X3e.5] 4f145d106s26p22 ,4

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Soluble in HCl, HF, and HNO3. Avoid H2SO4. Stable
with most metals and inorganic anions forming insoluble carbonate, borate,

sulfate, sulfite, sulfide, phosphate, oxalate, chromate, tannate, iodate, and

cyanide in neutral aqueous media.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 2–5% HNO3/LDPE
container.

Pb CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (best dissolved

in 1:1 H2O/HNO3); Oxides (the many different Pb oxides are soluble in HNO3,
with the exception of PbO2 which is soluble in HCl or HF); Ores and Alloys
(best attacked using 1:1 H2O/HNO3); Organic Matrices (dry ash and dissolve
in dilute HCl. Do not heat when dissolving to avoid precipitation of SiO2).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION:

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
1 ion Co
ICP-OES 168.215 nm 0.03/.003 μg/mL 1 ion Bi, Nb
1 atom W, Ir, Hf, Sb, Th
ICP-OES 220.353 nm 0.04/.006 μg/mL M+ 192Pt16O, 192Os16O
n/a
ICP-OES 217.000 nm 0.09/.03 μg/mL

ICP-MS 208 amu 5 ppt

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 58

Bismuth 83 208.980

LOCATION: Group 15, Period 6 1564 1.4
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 208.9804
COORDINATION NUMBER: 6 Bi271.52
CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Bi(O)(H2O)x1+
[9X.7e5] 4f145d106s26p33 ,5

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Stable in HCl, HNO3, H2SO4, and HF. Avoid basic
media forming insoluble hydroxide. Stable with most metals and inorganic

anions in acidic media. Many salts that are insoluble in water are soluble in

HCl, HNO3 and HF. The major problem with Bi3+ is its tendency to hydrolyze at
higher concentrations or in dilute acid. Nitric acid solutions should be 5% to

hold the Bi in solution in the 100 to 10000 μg/mL concentration range.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 5–7% HNO3/LDPE
container.

Bi CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (soluble in HNO3);
Oxides (soluble in HNO3); Alloys (dissolve in conc. 4:1 HCl/HNO3 – heating may
be required.); Organic based (dry ash at 450°C and dissolve ash in HNO3
or acid digestion with conc. hot sulfuric acid adding hydrogen peroxide

carefully dropwise until clear).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION: (italic text indicates severe at ~ concs.)

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
1 atom Th, Ir, Ti Cu
ICP-OES 223.061 nm 0.04/.005 μg/mL 1 atom Th, U, Zr, Hf, Fe
1 atom Cr, Hf, Ce, Os
ICP-OES 306.772 nm 0.08/.01 μg/mL 193Ir16O
n/a M+
ICP-OES 222.825 nm 0.1/.02 μg/mL

ICP-MS 209 amu 2 ppt

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 59

Cerium 58 140.12

LOCATION: Period 6 (lanthanoid) 3426 1.1
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 140.12
Ce798

[Xe]4f26s2 3,4
6.66

COORDINATION NUMBER: 6 to 9, 10 for some compounds

CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Ce(OH)y(H2O)x+4-y

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Soluble in HCl and HNO3. Avoid HF, H3PO4, H2SO4
and neutral to basic media. Stable with most metals and inorganic anions

forming an insoluble carbonate, oxide, oxalate, and fluoride and sparingly

soluble sulfates (La–Eu exhibit low sulfate solubility). Avoid mixing with

elements/solutions containing moderate amounts of fluoride.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 2–5% HNO3/LDPE
container.

Ce CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (soluble in
acids); Oxide (dissolved by heating in H2O/HNO3); Ores (carbonate fusion in
Pt0 followed by HCl dissolution); Organic Matrices (dry ash and dissolve in
1:1 H2O/HCl or HNO3).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION:

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
1 ion Ce**
ICP-OES 413.765 nm 0.05/.0058 μg/mL 1 ion Zr
1 ion
ICP-OES 418.660 nm 0.05/.003 μg/mL M+ 124Sn16O, 124Te16O
n/a
ICP-OES 453.975 nm 0.06/.0063 μg/mL

ICP-MS 140 amu 1 ppt

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view
**413.747 line may effect Bkg. Corr.

Page 60

Praseodymium 59 140.908

LOCATION: Period 6 (lanthanoid) 3512 1.1
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 140.9077
Pr931

[Xe]4f36s2 3,4
6.77

COORDINATION NUMBER: 6 to 9, 10 for some compounds

CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Pr(OH)y(H2O)x+3-y

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Soluble in HCl and HNO3. Avoid HF, H3PO4, H2SO4,
and neutral to basic media. Stable with most metals and inorganic anions

forming an insoluble carbonate, oxide, oxalate, and fluoride and sparingly

soluble sulfates (La–Eu exhibit low sulfate solubility). Avoid mixing with

elements/solutions containing moderate amounts of fluoride.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 2–5% HNO3/LDPE
container.

Pr CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (soluble in acids);
Oxide (dissolved by heating in H2O/HNO3); Ores (carbonate fusion in
Pt0 followed by HCl dissolution); Organic Matrices (dry ash and dissolve in 1:1
H2O/HCl or HNO3).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION:

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
1 ion Ce
ICP-OES 414.311 nm 0.04/.004 μg/mL 1 ion Cr, Ce
1 ion V, U
ICP-OES 417.939 nm 0.04/.004 μg/mL M+ 125Te16O
n/a
ICP-OES 422.535 nm 0.04/.004 μg/mL

ICP-MS 141 amu 0.3 ppt

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 61

Neodymium 60 144.24

LOCATION: Period 6 (lanthanoid) 3068 1.1
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 144.24
Nd1016

[Xe]4f46s2 3
7.00

COORDINATION NUMBER: 6 to 9, 10 for some compounds

CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Nd(OH)y(H2O)x+3-y

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Soluble in HCl and HNO3. Avoid HF, H3PO4, H2SO4
and neutral to basic media. Stable with most metals and inorganic anions

forming an insoluble carbonate, oxide, oxalate, and fluoride and sparingly

soluble sulfates (La–Eu exhibit low sulfate solubility). Avoid mixing with

elements/solutions containing moderate amounts of fluoride.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 2–5% HNO3/LDPE
container.

Nd CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (soluble in
acids); Oxide (dissolved by heating in H2O/HNO3); Ores (carbonate fusion in
Pt0 followed by HCl dissolution); Organic Matrices (dry ash and dissolve in
1:1 H2O/HCl or HNO3).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION:

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
1 ion Ti, Cr
ICP-OES 401.225 nm 0.05/.002 μg/mL 1 ion
1 ion Ce
ICP-OES 430.358 nm 0.075/.0014 μg/mL M+ 130Te16O
n/a
ICP-OES 406.109 nm 0.1/.002 μg/mL

ICP-MS 146 amu 2 ppt

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 62

Samarium 62 150.36

LOCATION: Period 6 (lanthanoid) 1791 1.1
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 150.36
Sm1072

[Xe]4f66s2 2,3
7.52

COORDINATION NUMBER: 6 to 9, 10 for some compounds

CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Sm(OH)y(H2O)x+3-y

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Soluble in HCl and HNO3. Avoid HF, H3PO4, H2SO4,
and neutral to basic media. Stable with most metals and inorganic anions

forming an insoluble carbonate, oxide, oxalate, and fluoride and sparingly

soluble sulfates (La–Eu exhibit low sulfate solubility). Avoid mixing with

elements/solutions containing moderate amounts of fluoride.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 2–5% HNO3/LDPE
container.

Sm CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (soluble in
acids); Oxide (dissolved by heating in H2O/HNO3); Ores (carbonate fusion in
Pt0 followed by HCl dissolution); Organic Matrices (dry ash and dissolve in
1:1 H2O/HCl or HNO3).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION:

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
ICP-OES 359.260 nm 0.05/.002 μg/mL 1 ion W, Th
ICP-OES 442.434 nm 0.075/.0014 μg/mL 1 ion Ce, Ca
ICP-OES 428.079 nm 0.1/.002 μg/mL 1 ion Ce, Cr
ICP-MS 152 amu 2 ppt M+ 136Ce16O, 136Ba16O,
n/a 152Gd

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 63

Europium 63 151.96

LOCATION: Period 6 (lanthanoid) 1597 1.0
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 151.96
Eu817

[Xe]4f76s2 2,3
5.24

COORDINATION NUMBER: 6 to 9, 10 for some compounds

CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Eu(OH)y(H2O)x+3-y

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Soluble in HCl and HNO3. Avoid HF, H3PO4, H2SO4
and neutral to basic media. Stable with most metals and inorganic anions

forming an insoluble carbonate, oxide, oxalate, and fluoride and sparingly

soluble sulfates (La–Eu exhibit low sulfate solubility). Avoid mixing with

elements/solutions containing moderate amounts of fluoride.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 2–5% HNO3/LDPE
container.

Eu CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (soluble in
acids); Oxide (dissolved by heating in H2O/HNO3); Ores (carbonate fusion in
Pt0 followed by HCl dissolution); Organic Matrices (dry ash and dissolve in
1:1 H2O/HCl or HNO3).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION:

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
1 ion Cr, V
ICP-OES 381.967 nm 0.003/.0003 μg/mL 1 ion Nb
1 ion Ce, V
ICP-OES 412.970 nm 0.004/.0004 μg/mL M+ 137Ba16O
n/a
ICP-OES 420.505 nm 0.004/.0004 μg/mL

ICP-MS 153 amu 1 ppt

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 64

Gadolinium 64 157.25

LOCATION: Period 6 (lanthanoid) 3266 1.1
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 157.25
Gd1312

[Xe]4f75d6s2 3
7.92

COORDINATION NUMBER: 6 to 9, 10 for some compounds

CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Gd(OH)x(H2O)y+3-x

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Soluble in HCl, H2SO4, and HNO3. Avoid HF, H3PO4,
and neutral to basic media. Stable with most metals and inorganic anions

forming an insoluble carbonate, oxide, oxalate, and fluoride. Avoid mixing

with elements/solutions containing moderate amounts of fluoride.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 2–5% HNO3/LDPE
container.

Gd CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (soluble in
acids); Oxide (dissolved by heating in H2O/HNO3); Ores (carbonate fusion in
Pt0 followed by HCl dissolution); Organic Matrices (dry ash and dissolve in
1:1 H2O/HCl or HNO3).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION:

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
ICP-OES 342.247 nm 0.014/.001 μg/mL 1 ion Th, U
ICP-OES 336.223 nm 0.02/.0002 μg/mL 1 ion Th, Ca
ICP-OES 335.047 nm 0.02/.002 μg/mL 1 ion Ce, Ca
ICP-MS 158 amu 2 ppt M+ 142Ce16O, 142Nd16O,
n/a 158Dy

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 65

Terbium 65 158.925

LOCATION: Period 6 (lanthanoid) 3223 1.1
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 158.925
Tb1357

[Xe]4f96s 3,4
8.23

COORDINATION NUMBER: 6 to 9, 10 for some compounds

CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Tb(OH)x(H2O)y+3-x

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Soluble in HCl, H2SO4, and HNO3. Avoid HF, H3PO4,
and neutral to basic media. Stable with most metals and inorganic anions

forming an insoluble carbonate, oxide, oxalate, and fluoride. Avoid mixing

with elements/solutions containing moderate amounts of fluoride.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 2–5% HNO3/LDPE
container.

Tb CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (soluble in
acids); Oxide (dissolved by heating in H2O/HNO3); Ores (carbonate fusion in
Pt0 followed by HCl dissolution); Organic Matrices (dry ash and dissolve in 1:1
H2O/HCl or HNO3).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION:

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
1 ion V, Th, Ce, Zr
ICP-OES 350.917 nm 0.02/.002 μg/mL 1 ion Ta, Ce, Co, U
M+ 143Nd16O, 127I16O2
ICP-OES 367.635 nm 0.06/.006 μg/mL n/a

ICP-MS 159 amu 1 ppt

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 66

Dysprosium 66 162.50

LOCATION: Period 6 (lanthanoid) 2562 1.1
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 162.50
Dy1409

[Xe]4f106s2 3
8.55

COORDINATION NUMBER: 6 to 9, 10 for some compounds

CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Dy(OH)x(H2O)y+3-x

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Soluble in HCl, H2SO4, and HNO3. Avoid HF, H3PO4,
and neutral to basic media. Stable with most metals and inorganic anions

forming an insoluble carbonate, oxide, oxalate, and fluoride. Avoid mixing

with elements/solutions containing moderate amounts of fluoride.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 2–5% HNO3/LDPE
container.

Dy CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (soluble in
acids); Oxide (dissolved by heating in H2O/HNO3); Ores (carbonate fusion in
Pt0 followed by HCl dissolution); Organic Matrices (dry ash and dissolve in
1:1 H2O/HCl or HNO3).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION:

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
1 ion Hf, Th, U, Zr
ICP-OES 340.780 nm 0.007/.0007 μg/mL 1 ion Ce, Th
M+ 147Sm16O
ICP-OES 353.170 nm 0.013/.001 μg/mL n/a

ICP-MS 163 amu 3 ppt

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 67

Holmium 67 164.930

LOCATION: Period 6 (lanthanoid) 2695 1.1
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 164.930
Ho1470

[Xe]4f116s2 3
8.80

COORDINATION NUMBER: 6 to 9, 10 for some compounds

CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Ho(OH)x(H2O)y+3-x

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Soluble in HCl, H2SO4, and HNO3. Avoid HF, H3PO4,
and neutral to basic media. Stable with most metals and inorganic anions

forming an insoluble carbonate, oxide, oxalate, and fluoride. Avoid mixing

with elements/solutions containing moderate amounts of fluoride.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 2–5% HNO3/LDPE
container.

Ho CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (soluble in
acids); Oxide (dissolved by heating in H2O/HNO3); Ores (carbonate fusion in
Pt0 followed by HCl dissolution); Organic Matrices (dry ash and dissolve in 1:1
H2O/HCl or HNO3).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION:

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
1 ion U, Ti
ICP-OES 345.600 nm 0.006/.0001 μg/mL 1 ion Ce, Re
M+ 149Sm16O
ICP-OES 339.898 nm 0.02/.002 μg/mL n/a

ICP-MS 165 amu 1 ppt

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 68

Erbium 68 167.26

LOCATION: Period 6 (lanthanoid) 2863 1.1
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 167.26
Er1522

[Xe]4f126s2 3
9.07

COORDINATION NUMBER: 6 to 9, 10 for some compounds

CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Er(OH)x(H2O)y+3-x

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Soluble in HCl, H2SO4, and HNO3. Avoid HF, H3PO4,
and neutral to basic media. Stable with most metals and inorganic anions

forming an insoluble carbonate, oxide, oxalate, and fluoride. Avoid mixing

with elements/solutions containing moderate amounts of fluoride.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 2–5% HNO3/LDPE
container.

Er CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (soluble in acids);
Oxide (dissolved by heating in H2O/HNO3); Ores (carbonate fusion in
Pt0 followed by HCl dissolution); Organic Matrices (dry ash and dissolve in
1:1 H2O/HCl or HNO3).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION:

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
1 ion Th, Ti
ICP-OES 337.271 nm 0.01/.001 μg/mL 1 ion Ru, Th, U
M+ 150Sm16O, 150Nd16O
ICP-OES 349.910 nm 0.02/.002 μg/mL n/a

ICP-MS 166 amu 1 ppt

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 69

Thulium 69 168.934

LOCATION: Period 6 (lanthanoid) 1947 1.1
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 168.9342
Tm1545

[Xe]4f136s2 2,3
9.32

COORDINATION NUMBER: 6 to 9, 10 for some compounds

CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Tm(OH)x(H2O)y+3-x

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Soluble in HCl, H2SO4, and HNO3. Avoid HF, H3PO4,
and neutral to basic media. Stable with most metals and inorganic anions

forming an insoluble carbonate, oxide, oxalate, and fluoride. Avoid mixing

with elements/solutions containing moderate amounts of fluoride.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 2–5% HNO3/LDPE
container.

Tm CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (soluble in
acids); Oxide (dissolved by heating in H2O/HNO3); Ores (carbonate fusion in
Pt0 followed by HCl dissolution); Organic Matrices (dry ash and dissolve in 1:1
H2O/HCl or HNO3).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION:

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
1 ion U, Th, Be
ICP-OES 313.126 nm 0.005/.003 μg/mL 1 ion Rh, U
M+ 153Eu16O
ICP-OES 346.220 nm 0.008/.006 μg/mL n/a

ICP-MS 169 amu 1 ppt

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 70

Ytterbium 70 173.05

LOCATION: Period 6 (lanthanoid) 1194 1.1
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 173.054
Yb824

[Xe]4f146s2 2,3
6.97

COORDINATION NUMBER: 6 to 9, 10 for some compounds

CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Yb(OH)x(H2O)y+3-x

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Soluble in HCl, H2SO4, and HNO3. Avoid HF, H3PO4,
and neutral to basic media. Stable with most metals and inorganic anions

forming an insoluble carbonate, oxide, oxalate, and fluoride. Avoid mixing

with elements/solutions containing moderate amounts of fluoride.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 2–5% HNO3/LDPE
container.

Yb CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (soluble in
acids); Oxide (dissolved by heating in H2O/HNO3); Ores (carbonate fusion in
Pt0 followed by HCl dissolution); Organic Matrices (dry ash and dissolve in
1:1 H2O/HCl or HNO3).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION:

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
ICP-OES 328.937 nm 0.002/.0003 μg/mL 1 ion
ICP-OES 369.419 nm 0.003/.0006 μg/mL 1 ion U, Ce, V
ICP-MS 174 amu 2 ppt M+ Fe
n/a 158Gd16O, 158Dy16O,
174Hf

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 71

Lutetium 71 174.9668

LOCATION: Group 13, Period 5 3395
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 174.9668
COORDINATION NUMBER: 6 Lu1663
CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Lu(OH)x(H2O)y+3-x
[Xe]4f145d6s2 1
9.84

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Soluble in HCl, H2SO4, and HNO3. Avoid HF, H3PO4,
and neutral to basic media. Stable with most metals and inorganic anions

forming an insoluble carbonate, oxide, oxalate, and fluoride. Avoid mixing

with elements/solutions containing moderate amounts of fluoride.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 2–5% HNO3/LDPE
container.

Lu CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (soluble in
acids); Oxide (dissolved by heating in H2O/HNO3); Ores (carbonate fusion in
Pt0 followed by HCl dissolution); Organic Matrices (dry ash and dissolve in 1:1
H2O/HCl or HNO3).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION:

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
1 ion Th, Mo, V, W
ICP-OES 261.542 nm 0.001/.0003 μg/mL 1 ion Cr, U
M+ 159Tb16O
ICP-OES 291.139 nm 0.006/.0006 μg/mL n/a

ICP-MS 175 amu 1 ppt

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 72

Thorium 90 232.038

LOCATION: Period 7 (actinoid) 4788 1.1
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 232.0381
COORDINATION NUMBER: 8 Th1755
CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: Th(OH)3+ and Th(OH)22+
[Rn]6d27s2 4
11.7

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Soluble in HCl and HNO3. Avoid H3PO4, H2SO4,
and HF, although solubilities may not be a problem depending upon pH and

matrix (i.e. ThF4 is soluble in acids). Avoid neutral to basic media. Th4+ is stable
with most metals and inorganic anions forming an insoluble carbonate, oxide,

fluoride, oxalate, sulfate, and phosphate in neutral to slightly acidic media.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 2–5% HNO3/LDPE
container.

Th CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (soluble in aqua

regia); Oxide (the heated oxide is not soluble in acids except hot conc. H2SO4);
Ores (Na2O2 fusion at 480 ± 20°C for 7 minutes, cool, and treat sintered mass
with 50 mL cold water and let stand until disintegrated. The mass is transferred

to a beaker and acidified with HCl, with 25 mL excess HCl added. Any residue

is collected on a Whatman No. 42 filter, dried and ignited to 1000°C in Pt0

crucible and ash treated with H2SO4/HF and fumed. If residue remains, then
treat it by peroxide fusion as described above).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION: (italic text indicates severe at ~ concs.)

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
1 ion U, Zr
ICP-OES 283.730 nm 0.07/.007 μg/mL 1 ion U, Mo, Ti, Fe, Cr
1 ion Ti, Ta, Fe, V
ICP-OES 283.231 nm 0.07/.007 μg/mL M+
n/a
ICP-OES 274.716 nm 0.08/.008 μg/mL

ICP-MS 232 amu 1 ppt

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 73

Uranium 92 238.029

LOCATION: Period 7 (actinoid) 4134 1.2
ATOMIC WEIGHT: 238.0289
COORDINATION NUMBER: 8 U1132
CHEMICAL FORM IN SOLUTION: UO22+ (uranyl)
1[R9n.0] 5f36d7s23,4,5,6

STORAGE & HANDLING: Keep tightly sealed when not in use. Store and use
at 20 ± 4°C. Do not pipet from container. Do not return portions removed for
pipetting to container.

CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY: Soluble in HCl and HNO3. Avoid H3PO4. H2SO4 and
HF matrices should not be a problem depending upon [U]. Although the

UO22+ ion is distinctly basic, any U+4 will ppt. in basic media. UO22+ salts are
generally soluble in water and UO22+ is stable with most metals and inorganic
anions. The uranyl phosphate is insoluble in water. UF4 and UF6 are water
soluble.

STABILITY: 2–100 ppb levels stable for months in 1% HNO3/LDPE container.
1–10,000 ppm solutions chemically stable for years in 2–5% HNO3/LDPE
container.

U CONTAINING SAMPLES (PREPARATION & SOLUTION): Metal (dissolves rapidly
in HCl and HNO3); Oxide (soluble in HNO3); Ores (digest for 1–2 hours with
1 gram of ore to 30 mL 1:1 HNO3. Silica insolubles are removed by filtration
after bringing the sample to fumes with conc. H2SO4).

ATOMIC SPECTROSCOPIC INFORMATION:

TECHNIQUE / LINE ESTIMATED D.L.* ORDER TYPE INTERFERENCES
ICP-OES 385.958 nm 0.3/.01 μg/mL 1 ion
ICP-OES 367.007 nm 0.3/.02 μg/mL 1 ion Th, Fe
ICP-OES 263.553 nm 0.3/.01 μg/mL 1 ion
Th, Ce
ICP-MS 238 amu 2 ppt n/a M+
Ce, Ir, Th, Rh, W,
Zr, Ta, Ti, V, Hf, Fe,
Re, Ru

206Pb16O2

*ICP-OES D.L.’s are given as radial/axial view

Page 74

Notes:

Page 75

Notes:

Page 76

Notes:

Page 77

Notes:

Page 78

Dr. Paul R. Gaines, center, in a planning meeting with Inorganic Venture team.

Paul R. Gaines, Ph.D.

Dr. Paul R. Gaines has four decades of spectroscopic experience.
After earning his Ph.D. in chemistry at Iowa State University Dr. Gaines
worked in the laboratories of Exxon Research and Engineering and
Union Carbide.

Today, Dr. Gaines is the Senior Technical Advisor and CEO of
Inorganic Ventures, as well as, an accomplished web author of
many popular guides and papers for fellow spectroscopists.

300 Technology Drive
Christiansburg, VA 24073 | USA

Phone: 1.540.585.3030
Fax: 1.540.585.3012
Toll-free: 1.800.669.6799

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